FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 8th, 2022 

Contact: Senator Robert Cowles: (608) 266-0484

Bill to Explore Ways to Improve Water Quality Passes the State Senate

MADISON– Senator Robert Cowles (R-Green Bay) released the following statement after 2021 Assembly Bill 727, which he authored with Representatives Joel Kitchens (R-Sturgeon Bay) and others, was passed by the Wisconsin State Senate during today’s floor period: 

“Clean waterbodies are as much a part of the foundation of our great state as agriculture. For decades, farmers have been a substantial part of efforts to maintain and improve water quality throughout the state. But with tight margins on many farms and constantly evolving knowledge about the best land practices to protect ground and surface water resources, Wisconsin’s rural residents and agricultural producers are asking for partners to grow their ongoing efforts and begin new initiatives that promote clean water.

“Assembly Bill 727 helps farmers implement new land and water conservation strategies to store more nutrients in soil and prevent pollutant leaching and runoff, which overall provides more opportunities for farmers to lead the solutions of tomorrow. No single approach can solve our water pollution problems, but concerted efforts such as Assembly Bill 727 can make a noticeable impact for the state’s agricultural producers, rural residents, and those who enjoy recreating on Wisconsin waters.

“I want to thank my co-authors and co-sponsors for their support behind this effort, as well as my Senate colleagues for voting to advance the bill. I’d also like to thank all of the stakeholder groups which supported this effort, including the 19 agriculture and agri-business groups which were enthusiastic about their support behind this effort. My hope is for a quick signature by the Governor so DATCP can get to work on program specifics and get the Joint Committee on Finance to rapidly release program funding.”

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